Lionsgate is preparing to move forward with "Michael 2," the sequel to its Michael Jackson biopic "Michael," with production expected to begin towards the end of 2026 or in early 2027. Studio motion picture chief Adam Fogelson confirmed the timeline during a company earnings call, adding that a release is targeted for late 2027 or the first half of 2028. The update matters because "Michael," directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson, became a major box office success this spring, grossing $1 billion globally, and ended with a title card signalling more instalments to come.

The first film covered Jackson's rise from the Jackson 5 through to his 1987 "Bad" tour, and it remains unclear which period of his life the sequel will explore, though his "Dangerous" album era and the abuse allegations that dogged him are potential material. A last-minute legal dispute, stemming from a settlement clause barring depictions of one accuser, forced the original film to cut planned scenes addressing the molestation claims; Fogelson said some previously shot footage, including major musical sequences, is likely to be used in the sequel. He declined to give a budget figure, saying the priority is delivering "the biggest, best sequel" at the right price.